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30 of My Favorite Tote Bag Sewing Patterns (most of them are free)

Today I’ve rounded up more than 30 of my favorite tote bag sewing patterns. Most of them are free patterns. I have also included a section of bag patterns that you can buy. They range in difficulty and skill level from easy to advanced.

If you’ve been a long-time reader, then you know that I love to make bags! I still remember the first bag I ever made. My twins were babies (so it was years ago). I remember struggling through those first steps to put the bag together. That overwhelming feeling that someone who is learning to sew sometimes gets.

Then, all of a sudden, a light bulb went on, and I understood how to put the bag together. After that, it was all downhill from there.

If you’ve never made a bag before, I encourage you to try it! They are fun to make and are perfect as handmade gifts.

How do you sew a simple fabric tote bag?

If you’re looking for a way to make a simple tote bag, I recommend starting with my Kids Library Bag pattern. It’s just about as simple as it gets.

I also have a video tutorial on my YouTube channel for a Trick or Treat bag. All you have to do to change the fabric for the exterior of the bag, and it’s no longer a Halloween bag but a simple tote!

What materials do you need to make a tote bag?

You will need fabric, interfacing, and material for the handles. You can make bag handles out of fabric, cotton webbing strap material, or leather. Each free sewing pattern in this list features a different handle material. Look to each specific project for more detailed instructions.

How much fabric do you need to make a tote bag?

In general, you will need one half to one yard of fabric for the outside of the bag and one half to yard of fabric for the bag lining. Each bag pattern differs; if you’re buying fabric and don’t have a specific pattern in mind, I’d buy 1/2 yard of fabric each for the bag outside and lining.

What Fabric is Best for a Tote Bag?

I recommend 100% cotton fabric for tote bags. Most of my bags are sewn with quilting-weight cotton, but you can also use lightweight home decor fabric. Some bags are made from a heavier-weight fabric. Just make sure that your sewing machine can handle bulky fabric if you choose a heavy-weight fabric.

Do You Have to Sew a Zipper to Make a Bag?

No! There are a lot of tote bags sewing patterns out there that don’t require zippers. However, you don’t need to be afraid of zippers! They aren’t so bad, I promise! I love to use them in my bag patterns, especially on the pockets. If you’re nervous, start with a bag sewing pattern that has a video tutorial.

My Favorite Bag Patterns

If I had to pick just three bag patterns, I’d have to say that my Retro Travel Bag, Saturday Duffle Bag, and Canvas Bottom tote are my favorites. I’ve sewn each of these bag patterns multiple times in many different fabrics. I never tire of them!

30+ Free Bag Sewing Patterns

We have well over 1200 projects and tutorials on our site. Here are a few of our most popular free bag patterns and tutorials.

Free Bag Patterns from Sewing Blogs

There are so many fabulous sewing blogs out there right now. I can't type up this list without mentioning a few free bag patterns featured on some of my favorite sewing blogs.

Bag Sewing Patterns you can Buy

As much as I love a free tutorial, sometimes a project is more involved and the best format for it is a paid pattern. The benefit of buying a bag pattern is that there are usually more detailed instructions and more photos.

Since I'm a HUGE fan of the Maker movement, I'm always happy to spend a few dollars to support a fellow maker.

If you’re new to Bag Making, make sure you also check out

15 Must-Know Bag Making Tips & Tricks

Tips for Sewing with Laminate Fabrics

How to Make and Sew Piping

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